A wearable device for providing haptic stimulations is provided. The wearable device includes: (i) a wearable structure to be worn on a portion of a user's body and (ii) an inflatable bladder, coupled to the wearable structure, that includes two or more pockets positioned at a target location on the wearable structure. Furthermore, the two or more pockets are configured to, when inflated, impart directional force(s) onto the user at the target location that impede movement of the portion of the user's body. Additionally, the directional force(s) are caused by the two or more pockets interfering with each other, when inflated. In some embodiments, (a) the portion of the user's body is a hand of the user, (b) the target location is a finger joint on the user's hand, and (c) the directional force(s) imparted onto the user at the target location impede flexion of the user's finger.
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10. The haptic device of claim 1, further comprising a grounding assembly that is configured to secure the wearable structure and the at least one inflatable bladder to the user's body.
A haptic device provides tactile feedback to a user through at least one inflatable bladder integrated into a wearable structure. The device includes a control system that regulates inflation and deflation of the bladder to generate haptic sensations. The wearable structure is designed to conform to a user's body part, such as an arm, leg, or torso, ensuring proper positioning and stability during operation. The inflatable bladder is made of a flexible, durable material that expands and contracts in response to air or fluid pressure, creating localized vibrations or pressure changes to simulate touch, movement, or other sensory feedback. The device further includes a grounding assembly that secures the wearable structure and the inflatable bladder to the user's body. This assembly ensures that the haptic device remains properly positioned during use, preventing slippage or misalignment that could reduce the effectiveness of the tactile feedback. The grounding assembly may include straps, adhesives, or other fastening mechanisms that adapt to different body shapes and sizes, providing a stable and comfortable fit. The control system may also include sensors to monitor bladder pressure and adjust inflation levels dynamically, ensuring consistent haptic feedback. This technology is useful in applications such as virtual reality, medical rehabilitation, and wearable assistive devices, where precise and reliable tactile feedback is essential.
18. The haptic device of claim 1, wherein the one or more directional forces imparted onto the user at the target location simulate forces induced by physical objects at the target location during natural-object interaction.
This invention relates to haptic feedback devices designed to simulate the tactile sensations of interacting with physical objects. The device generates directional forces at a specific target location on a user's body to mimic the forces experienced during natural object manipulation. These forces replicate the physical interactions, such as resistance, pressure, or movement, that would occur when handling real-world objects. The system dynamically adjusts the force magnitude and direction based on the user's movements and the simulated environment, enhancing realism. The device may include sensors to track the user's position and motion, ensuring precise force application. By providing realistic haptic feedback, the invention improves immersion in virtual or augmented reality applications, robotic control systems, or medical training simulations. The technology addresses the challenge of creating convincing tactile experiences in digital environments, where traditional input methods lack the physical feedback of real-world interactions. The directional forces are tailored to match the expected sensations of touching, lifting, or manipulating objects, making the interaction feel authentic. This approach enhances user engagement and accuracy in tasks requiring fine motor control or spatial awareness.
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September 18, 2020
October 25, 2022
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